The power of a wellness action plan for wellbeing

In today's fast-paced work environment, mental health has become a pressing concern. In the UK alone, poor mental health is the leading cause of workplace absence, costing organisations roughly £57 billion in 2023. Businesses need to take proactive steps to support their employees' wellbeing. 

If, as an employer or business owner, you are concerned about how to address it effectively, a mentally healthy workplace training can help. Perfect training boosts employee happiness and increases productivity.

What affects mental health in the workplace?  

Tight deadlines  

Long working hours and tight deadlines create a feeling of anxiety and impact mental health adversely. A high volume of tasks for an extended period also creates a burden. It leads to stress and exhaustion. 

Poor work environment  

Poor work environments do not denote unhygienic spaces at all times. It also reflects a place where employees receive no recognition for their hard work. It also includes factors like favouritism, disparity, and unsafe physical conditions. 

Lack of mental support  

Mental support at work has a notable influence on job satisfaction and mental health. Lack of this support from colleagues or seniors can lead to severe mental health challenges.  

What is a wellness action plan (WAP)? 

 

A wellness action plan (WAP) is a personalised, practical tool. It is designed to help people identify what keeps them well at work, what causes them to become unwell, and the support they need from their employer. It's a proactive approach to mental health that helps break the stigma. Naturally, it encourages open conversations between employees and managers.  


Also Read: What is the purpose of undergoing mental health first aider training?

The benefits of implementing a wellness action plan 

Personalised support 

Every employee is unique, and so are their mental health needs. Wellness action plans enable tailored support. It ensures that each individual's specific triggers and coping strategies are acknowledged and addressed. 

Preventative approach 

Identifying potential stressors early helps wellness action plans help prevent mental health issues from escalating. This proactive stance can lead to reduced absenteeism and a more resilient workforce.  

Enhanced communication 

Wellness action plans foster open dialogue between employees and managers, building trust and understanding. Regular check-ins ensure that support remains relevant and effective. 

Boosted morale and retention 

Employees who feel supported are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work. Implementing wellness action plans demonstrates a company's commitment to its staff's wellbeing, thereby enhancing morale and reducing turnover. 

Improved productivity 

A mentally healthy workforce is a productive one. By addressing mental health proactively, companies can experience performance improvements and a reduction in sick leave. 

Implementing wellness action plans in the workplace 

Introducing wellness action plans doesn't have to be complicated. Begin by educating managers about the importance of mental health and how wellness action plans can serve as a tool for support. Encourage voluntary participation and ensure confidentiality to build trust. Regularly review and update the plans to reflect any changes in circumstances or needs.  

 

Mental health is an integral part of overall wellbeing. Workplaces play a crucial role in supporting it. Wellness action plans provide a structured yet flexible approach to proactively addressing mental health. By implementing wellness action plans, companies can create a supportive environment. It not only benefits employees but also enhances organisational performance. 

 

At The Wellbeing Project, we offer mental health training sessions for employees and managers. These sessions and workshops help everyone to break the stigma, address any underlying issues and resolve them.  

 

Connect with us and unlock the door to productivity.

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